Join Paddle Naples for a 2.5-hour guided eco tour featuring paddleboarding and kayaking around Big Hickory Island. Witness dolphins, manatees, and vibrant marine life on this beginner-friendly adventure in Fort Myers Beach.
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Difficulty
easy
Duration
2–3 hours
Fitness Level
Suitable for most fitness levels; little to no prior experience needed
Wildlife
History
The waters around Fort Myers Beach have long been vital to local fishing communities and indigenous tribes, with many stories passed down through the generations.
Conservation
Paddle Naples promotes environmental stewardship by minimizing impact and educating participants about local ecosystems.
Paddle Naples
Join Paddle Naples for a 2.5-hour guided eco tour featuring paddleboarding and kayaking around Big Hickory Island. Witness dolphins, manatees, and vibrant marine life on this beginner-friendly adventure in Fort Myers Beach.
Paddle Naples is a Bonita Springs water sports outfitter specializing in guided eco tours and rentals on Estero Bay and Big Hickory Island. It offers clear kayaks, tandem kayaks, single and tandem kayak rentals, paddleboards, and Hobie pedal-drive craft for fishing or leisure. Tours include guided eco experiences—both paddleboard and kayak options—ranging from one-hour excursions to 2.5-hour clear paddleboard trips, plus sunset and glow-light clear kayak outings. Trips launch from Big Hickory Island and explore mangrove estuaries, inlets, and barrier islands where guests commonly see dolphins, manatees, pelicans, and diverse shorebirds.
Paddle Naples provides beginner-friendly lessons, complimentary photos on guided tours, safety gear such as life vests and dry boxes, and alternatives like pedal kayaks for paddlers seeking less upper-body effort. Rentals include hourly and multi-hour options; guided tours focus on ecology, wildlife viewing, and relaxed beach exploration. The business serves families, first-time paddlers, and experienced paddlers seeking clear-hull visibility or a self-guided outing. Paddle Naples emphasizes local knowledge of Southwest Florida waterways, small-group guided experiences, and on-water instruction to build confidence. Equipment is maintained for safety and visibility, and staff provide orientation before departures. Reservations are available for specific trip types, and shore access locations include Big Hickory Island and nearby Bonita Springs launch points.
Customers can choose guided or self-guided options with clear-hull gear, lessons, and safety briefings tailored to skill level and trip length.
Launch Location
Big Hickory Island
Estero Bay launch point
Tours Offered
14 experiences
Guided tours and rentals
Trip Lengths
1–2.5 hours
Short to extended outings
Beginner Friendly
Lessons Included
On-water guidance for all
Book clear kayaks, paddleboards, Hobie pedal drives, or guided eco tours from Big Hickory Island — limited spots for sunset and guided excursions.
Wear sunscreen and water shoes
Protection from sun exposure and easy footing on the shoreline make for a more comfortable trip.
Bring waterproof camera or phone
Capture wildlife encounters and stunning water views without worry.
Stay hydrated and pack light snacks
Ensure energy levels stay high during the relaxed paddling pace.
Listen to the guide’s wildlife tips
Enhance your experience with insights on local species and habitats.
Sunscreen
Protects your skin during extended time on the water.
summer
Wearing a hat and sunglasses
Shields your face and eyes from the sun for better comfort and visibility.
spring, summer, fall
Light waterproof jacket
Prepares you for cooler breezes or unexpected showers.
winter
Reusable water bottle
Stay hydrated throughout your eco adventure.